Setting Up a Charity
Choosing the right legal structure for your charity, social enterprise, or not-for-profit organisation can be complex.
The same applies to the process of registering a charity with the Charity Commission. With extensive expertise in new charity registrations, we make the process as smooth as possible, providing flexible support tailored to your needs.
Setting up a charity, social enterprise, or other not-for-profit entity involves important decisions.
Whether the focus is on grant-making, social impact initiatives, or large-scale operations in the UK and internationally, having the right legal foundation is essential.
We are nationally recognised for our expertise in the charity and not-for-profit sector, supporting philanthropists, communities, family offices, corporates, and social entrepreneurs in setting up charitable ventures.
With an in-depth understanding of key regulators - including the Charity Commission, CIC Regulator, HMRC, Privy Council Office, Office for Students, Department for Education, and Companies House - our team of charity lawyers provide practical, informed advice at every stage.
Handling complex applications for charitable status is one of our core specialisms, with insight into the Charity Commission’s specific requirements.
Legal guidance is always pragmatic and results-driven, ensuring clarity and confidence throughout the process.
Our expertise
Charity set up and registration will often be the first step in a longer journey. Our clients span the full spectrum of the charity and not-for-profit sector, from start-ups to well-established organisations operating nationally and internationally.
Our aim is to make that first step as straightforward as possible and to ensure that the entity we help establish is fit for the journey that follows.
Our team advises on the following areas:
We work closely with you to assess the range of legal structures available for establishing your charity, social enterprise or not-for-profit organisation. Our clear, actionable advice will guide you through the pros and cons of each structure, taking into account your specific objectives, funding needs, operations, tax considerations, and governance requirements.
From drafting governing documents to preparing applications for the relevant regulator, we offer comprehensive support to establish your charity or not-for-profit entity. We specialise in governance, helping you navigate the relationships between founders, trustees, directors, members, and other stakeholders to ensure clarity and effectiveness from the outset.
It’s vital that trustees and directors fully understand their duties and obligations. We provide clear, practical guidance on what is expected of them, ensuring they are aware of their responsibilities under relevant regulations, such as the Charity Commission’s guidelines, to support effective operations and decision-making.
We offer a range of services to support newly established charities and non-profit organisations, from ensuring compliance with regulatory policies to offering broader guidance on day-to-day activities. Our goal is to ensure your new entity operates smoothly and effectively from the outset.
The establishment of your charity, social enterprise or not-for-profit organisation marks the beginning of a lasting partnership with us. As your trusted advisors, we will continue to support your growth at every stage, ensuring you have the legal guidance needed to thrive in your mission.
If an application to the Charity Commission has encountered difficulties, expert assistance is available to refine the submission or make significant adjustments to strengthen the case.
Quick to size up an issue and give pragmatic advice. Great communication, always make themselves available and very solution focused. They offer charity law advice but in giving that view they apply a wider commercial perspective which other firms struggle to do.
Our work highlights
Supporting a high net worth donor family
Establishing a charity with £100m in assets, now pioneering innovative programme-related investments to alleviate poverty.
Creating a corporate charitable foundation
Advising a FTSE 100 company on launching a foundation to channel fundraising efforts from staff and customers into meaningful community initiatives.
Helping social entrepreneurs establish and convert a CIC
Assisting in setting up a community interest company to translate Arabic books into other languages, later converting it into a registered charity.
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